Armin van Buuren and Maddix redefined live DJing at A State of Trance 2025 with an electrifying “face-to-face” performance that kept fans on edge. This daring experiment pushed the boundaries of traditional DJ sets, offering a one-of-a-kind experience for trance lovers worldwide.
A Bold Twist on Traditional DJ Sets
Breaking from convention, the two Dutch artists positioned their DJ booths directly opposite each other, eliminating visual cues and forcing them to rely solely on instinct and musical intuition. Unlike traditional back-to-back sets, where DJs can read each other’s track choices and body language, this unique setup added an element of unpredictability, turning their performance into a high-stakes musical showdown.
The challenge of performing without direct interaction heightened the intensity, making every drop, transition, and build-up feel even more spontaneous and thrilling. Fans could sense the anticipation as both DJs worked in sync without any visual communication, relying purely on their deep understanding of each other’s styles and track selection.
A High-Energy, Unscripted Experience
With no ability to see their counterpart’s decks, van Buuren and Maddix had to anticipate each other’s moves in real-time. The result? A dynamic, fast-paced set that felt more like an intense chess match than a typical DJ performance. This format created a rollercoaster of sounds, from euphoric melodies to pulsating basslines, ensuring the crowd stayed engaged from start to finish.
Fans were treated to a set filled with surprises, unexpected transitions, and never-before-heard remixes, making this performance one of the most talked-about moments of ASOT 2025. Social media buzzed with excitement as attendees and online viewers shared their reactions, praising the duo for their innovation and technical prowess.
A Highlight of ASOT 2025
This groundbreaking set was just one highlight of ASOT 2025 in Rotterdam. The festival’s opening day featured over five hours of live music from Armin van Buuren, setting the tone for a weekend dedicated to both the present and future of trance music. With performances from top-tier artists and cutting-edge production, ASOT 2025 once again proved why it remains one of the most influential events in the electronic music world.
As the festival unfolded, trance enthusiasts from around the globe gathered to celebrate their shared passion, experiencing the magic of live sets, immersive visuals, and unforgettable moments. The “face-to-face” set by van Buuren and Maddix was a testament to the evolving nature of DJing, showing that innovation and creativity can still surprise even the most dedicated fans.
Missed the action? Watch the full performance on YouTube here.